Science Under Sail

This unique partnership between the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) and Yorktown Sailing Charters LLC allows paid guests to learn about Chesapeake Bay and its marine life from VIMS researchers during 2-hour Wednesday afternoon cruises on the York River aboard the 105-foot schooner Alliance.

Spring 2014 Schedule

May 7: Diamondback Terrapins

Join Dr. Diane Tulipani of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science for a hands on look at the only turtles in the U.S. that live exclusively in estuaries.

May 14: Drifters and Jellies

Professor Deb Steinberg of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science will use zooplankton netted from the York River to discuss the wonderful variety of Bay "drifters" and their important role in marine ecology and food webs.

May 21: Fishes near and far

Graduate student Mark Stratton of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science will cast a net to see what's swimming beneath the Alliance. A "show and tell" of preserved fishes from places near and far will be shared by VIMS' Collection Manager Dr. Sarah Huber. You'll also learn how fish are preserved and catalogued.

May 28: Underwater Gliders

Team up with Dr. Donglai Gong of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science to learn about underwater gliders and how scientists are using this exciting technology.